Ben Hunt Criticizes NRL for Policing Contact on Kickers: Says it’s Gone Too Far and Defenders Should be Rewarded

Veteran NRL player Ben Hunt has spoken out against the league’s strict policing of contact on kickers, saying it has “gone too far” and defenders should be rewarded for applying legitimate pressure without jeopardizing player safety. Hunt, who is the chief kicker for the Dragons, believes that playmakers accept the risk when they step onto the field.

His comments come in light of a recent incident where NSW women’s State of Origin star Corban Baxter escaped with a grade 1 charge for dangerous contact on Zahara Temara, which Hunt believes was far worse than what Harry Grant did when he was sent to the sin bin for a minor infraction. The Storm fought Grant’s case at the judiciary, and he was found not guilty.

Hunt acknowledges the NRL’s efforts to protect kickers from serious leg injuries but argues that putting pressure on kickers and trying to force errors is an essential part of the game. He emphasizes that defenders should be allowed to apply pressure without fear of being penalized excessively.

The debate over the policing of contact on kickers is likely to continue, with Hunt’s defense of Grant coming ahead of the State of Origin team selections later in the month. Hunt and Grant have formed a successful partnership around the ruck for the Maroons in the past, and Hunt hopes they will be selected together again.

In other NRL news, Magic Round is set to remain in Brisbane until at least 2027, with the Queensland capital beating out other cities for the hosting rights. Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman Peter V’landys announced the extension, praising the Queensland Government for their support during challenging times.

V’landys also made a cheeky remark about Brisbane not being the highest bidder for the event, but emphasized the importance of their partnership for the NRL. Magic Round has proved to be a successful event, attracting a significant percentage of interstate visitors and providing a boost to the local economy.